Nemith Nissan

Vehicle Preview: The 2012 Nissan Sentra
The compact sedan built to suit your busy life.

For most people, there simply aren't enough hours in the day. The key to managing your life in hectic times is adaptability, and Nissan makes the perfect car to help you navigate that unpredictable journey: The new 2012 Sentra compact sedan.

Offering the roominess, safety and versatility of a larger midsize sedan along with the value, superior fuel economy and nimble handling of a compact, the new 2012 Nissan Sentra lineup has a model guaranteed to smooth out whatever kinks life may put in your path ? including two models designed for drivers who sometimes need to break free of the daily grind with a satisfying burst of speed.

Nissan sells the front-wheel drive, five-passenger Sentra in six versions: 2.0 (MSRP $16,060), 2.0 S, 2.0 SR, 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V (MSRP $20,620).

The key to this car's versatile nature is its all-aluminum 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant. Cranking out 140 hp, this 2.0-liter mill brims with performance-enhancing technology that also helps boost fuel efficiency including dual overhead cams, direct injection and continuously variable valve timing. Delivering up to an EPA-estimated 34 mpg on the highway, the Sentra lets you travel nearly 500 highway miles between fill-ups.

Drivers looking to shoehorn some excitement into their busy schedules will appreciate the extra grunt of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine found in the SE-R and SE-R Spec V. Using race-inspired engine technology ? including a resin-molded high-flow intake system ? the sporty SE-R raises the bar with a road-hungry 177 hp. Meanwhile, the SE-R Spec-V gives the term "pocket-rocket" a twist, boasting 200 hp and 180 lb/ft of torque.

The Sentra 2.0 comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission. The 2.0 S, 2.0 SR and 2.0 SL models equipped with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder feature a dynamic, continuously variable transmission called the Xtronic CVT^® (optional on the 2.0 trim) that delivers higher efficiency and quicker "shifts" than conventional automatics.

The SE-R features a version of the Xtronic CVT complete with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters. True to its reputation as a road burner, the SE-R Spec V offers a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission with dual-mass flywheel.

The Sentra is agile in any configuration thanks to an independent strut suspension in front, a torsion-beam setup in back and beefy stabilizer bars at both ends. Special "ripple-control" shock absorbers tame even the worst of roads while standard four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) haul the Sentra down from speed without any fuss.

All trim levels of the Sentra now get Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS) as standard equipment. Safety is further served thanks to front-seat Active Head Restraints and the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), which includes dual-stage supplemental front units and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental units.

Once inside the Sentra, you'll find an environment both comfortable and flexible with a spacious 97.7 cubic feet of total passenger volume, an amount that rivals midsize stalwarts like the Toyota Camry, and a maximum cargo volume of 13.1 cubic feet. Lower the 60/40-split double-fold rear seat and the oversized pass-through opening to the trunk lets you haul even bulky items like a snowboard or bicycle.

Between its long list of standard features and a collection of option packages newly streamlined for 2012, the Sentra aims to satisfy buyers working within most any budget. Even the 2.0 model delivers such standards as air conditioning, power windows and door locks, a 12-volt DC power outlet, an auxiliary audio input jack and vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering. When equipped with the Xtronic CVT, the Sentra 2.0 also gets the same rear-lip spoiler with integrated LED high-mounted brakelights found on the sporty SE-R. For 2012, a new Technology Package is offered as well.

The 2.0 S adds to the list of standard equipment with amenities such as cruise control, remote keyless entry, an Interface System for iPod and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MPS RDS audio system. Moving up to the 2.0 SR nets exterior styling cues shared with the SE-R including sport front and rear fascias, foglights and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The 2.0 SL ups the ante of standards even higher, adding such items as a Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 4.3-inch color audio head unit with iPod interface.

The available Convenience Package outfits 2.0 S and 2.0 SR models with highlights like Bluetooth and Nissan Intelligent Key keyless entry and ignition while the Technology Package contributes a Nissan Navigation System with five-inch color touchscreen monitor and XM NavTraffic, among other items. Nissan also offers a Special Edition Package for SR models that combines the features found in the Moonroof, Technology and Convenience Packages at a tremendous savings.

The 2.0 SL offers four upscale option packages including a Leather Package with leather-appointed seats and heat for the front seats, an Audio Package with an eight-speaker, 340-watt Rockford-Fosgate Sound System and a Special Value Package, which brings such finery as a power-sliding glass moonroof and a RearView monitor.

Life may be pulling at you from every direction, but you can rest easy knowing the 2011 Nissan Sentra offers a model to suit whichever road you choose. Come see for yourself by scheduling a test drive.

2012 Nissan Sentra Offers Versatile Space to Spare, Amenities Including Navigation and RearView Monitor

For 2012, the stylish, roomy, fun-to-drive Nissan Sentra sedan remains a versatile performer for people with busy weekday, weekend and around-the-clock lives. And, with six well-equipped models and available equipment ranging from the Bluetooth? Hands-free Phone System to the Nissan Navigation System and RearView Monitor, Sentra has the perfect combination to match any need or budget.

Nissan's popular compact sedan is again offered in a range of models ? Sentra 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR, 2.0 SL and the performance-oriented Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V (please see separate 2012 Sentra SE-R press materials for information on these models). Sentra 2.0 models feature a standard 140-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a choice of 6-speed manual transmission or fuel-efficient Nissan Xtronic CVT®. Sentra SE-R is equipped with a 177-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder with Xtronic CVT® and SE-R Spec V offers a potent 200-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder and a 6-speed manual transmission (for full information on the 2012 Sentra SE-R please see the separate press materials, available at NissanNews.com).

Enhancements for 2012 include a new Technology Package, which is offered with the Sentra 2.0 S. In addition, three packages that were introduced late in the 2011 model year for the Sentra 2.0 SR continue into 2012 ? the Moonroof Package, Technology Package and Special Edition Package. The Special Edition package combines all of the features of the Moonroof Package, Technology Package and Convenience Package at a substantial savings over what those packages would cost individually. In addition, one new exterior color is offered, Red Alert (replaces Lava Red).

Sentra is again available with a variety of unexpected amenities ? ranging from the luxury of leather-appointed seating to the convenience of Nissan's Intelligent Key® keyless entry and ignition system and Nissan Navigation System with 5.0-inch color screen and XM NavTraffic® Real-Time Traffic Information (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

"Sentra once again meets and exceeds all the expectations buyers in the compact sedan segment have ? good fuel economy, durability, safety, reliability and affordability," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "Sentra, however, goes far beyond that with a completely unexpected level of style, roominess, responsiveness and versatility ? attributes that set Sentra apart in the segment."

Designed for Active Lifestyles
Built on Nissan's global "C" platform, Sentra's exterior reflects Nissan design language and offers styling cues found on other distinctive Nissan products. The profile includes a long wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, crisp character lines and large door openings, while in the rear the high deck accentuates the roomy cabin and cargo area.

The Sentra 2.0 SR adds a sporty appearance with a unique grille, front and rear sport fascias, side sill spoilers, rear decklid spoiler with integrated brake light, sport headlights and taillights, driving lights, exhaust finisher, and SE-R style rear decklid spoiler with integrated LED high?mounted stop light.

Nine exterior colors are available: Metallic Blue, Blue Onyx, Espresso Black, Red Alert, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, Super Black, Red Brick and Aspen White.

Inside, the interior continues the sporty, functional theme of the exterior, with the use of high quality materials, large gauges and a spacious, flexible center console. All Sentra models receive cloth seat trim with available leather-appointed seating and heated front seats on 2.0 SL.

The instrument panel offers chrome HVAC knob accents, coin holder, reddish orange illumination color. A 4.3-inch color display is standard on Sentra 2.0 SL.

Sentra's interior is designed to comfortably accommodate five full-size adults, with an ample passenger volume of 97.7 cubic feet. Along with the roomy, social space of the interior, Sentra's trunk provides 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space. With the 60/40-split double-fold rear seat (the bottom cushion folds forward, allowing the seat back to fold down flat), Sentra offers exceptional cargo flexibility for carrying long, bulky items such as snowboards, hockey sticks and even bikes.

Other storage solutions include a rear seat armrest with cupholders that can accommodate a 20-ounce bottle and 32-ounce drink cup, extra instrument panel storage next to the driver's door, and a large glove compartment that can fit a 8x11-inch writing tablet or a large-sized map book. The center console offers multiple storage options, including an adjustable cup holder design and cell phone space.

Along with ample roominess, Sentra is offered a wide array of premium equipment, including available Nissan Intelligent Key® keyless entry and ignition system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and premium Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system with 8 speakers. An Interface System for iPod® is standard on all Sentra models except Sentra 2.0.

Responsive, Fun-to-Drive Performance
Sentra's powerful 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine designed to combine responsive acceleration with good fuel economy and efficient operation. It is mated to a standard Xtronic CVT® or 6-speed manual transmission (Sentra 2.0 only).

The advanced 2.0-liter Nissan MR20DE engine has an aluminum block and is designed to offer an exceptional balance of responsive acceleration, excellent low and mid-range torque and increased thermal efficiency. The engine is rated at 140 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. Up to 90 percent of the torque is achieved by 2,400 rpm ? providing comfortable driving and excellent fuel consumption in real world driving.

Fuel economy is rated at 27/34 miles per gallon City/Highway with the CVT and 24/31 City/Highway miles per gallon with the 6-speed manual transmission (Sentra 2.0 only).

The 2012 Sentra also offers responsive handling. The front suspension is an independent strut design with coil springs and stabilizer bar. The rear features a torsion beam with integral stabilizer bar, with the rear shock absorbers mounted below the trunk floor for improved trunk roominess. Sentra's ride comfort is enhanced through use of special "ripple control" shock absorbers, an insulated front cradle-type subframe with pendulum engine mount system, roller-type front strut bearings and large, tuned rear beam isolators.

All Sentra models feature standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), along with standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

Other standard safety features for the Sentra include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; and front-seat Active Head Restraints.

Four Well-Equipped Models
The 2012 Sentra 2.0 is offered in four well-equipped models, starting with the Sentra 2.0 with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Xtronic CVT® or 6-speed manual transmission. Standard features include electric power-assisted steering, 15-inch wheels and tires, cloth interior, oversized glove compartment, power windows and door locks, 60/40-split folding rear seat, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input and much more.

Sentra 2.0 S adds 16-inch wheels, P205/55HR16 tires, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 CD playback capability, Interface System for iPod®, Vehicle Security System (VSS), trip computer, cruise control, Remote Keyless Entry, and more.

The 2.0 SR takes its sporty styling cues from the high-performance Sentra SE-R, adding a unique exterior treatment including sport front and rear fascias, sport side sills, fog lights, rear spoiler and 16-inch 7-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels.

The top-of-the-line Sentra 2.0 SL is available with standard cloth seats or optional leather-appointed seats. Standard SL equipment includes fog lights, 16-inch 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels, Nissan Intelligent Key® with remote trunk release, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), leather-wrapped steering wheel, and 4.3-inch color screen.

Available options and packages for 2.0 S and 2.0 SR models include the Convenience Package with Nissan Intelligent Key® keyless entry and ignition system with remote trunk release, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cargo net and hooks; and the Technology Package with Nissan Navigation System with 5-inch color touch-screen display, XM NavTraffic, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately), and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices. A Moonroof Package is also available on the 2.0 SR model.

Another package offered exclusively on the Sentra 2.0 SR is the Special Edition Package. It combines all of the features of the Moonroof Package, Technology Package and Convenience Package at a substantial saving over what those packages would cost individually. The package also features a unique Special Edition wheel finish and Special Edition badge on the rear deck.

Sentra 2.0 SL options include the Leather Package with leather-appointed seats and heated front seats; and the Special Value Package with power sliding glass moonroof with tilt, dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors, cargo net and hooks, Nissan Navigation System with 5.0-inch screen and RearView Monitor; and Audio Package with 8-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system.

2012 Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V: Built Ready to Perform, Offers Sporty Style at an Affordable Price

Following Nissan's longstanding formula of delivering serious performance in affordably priced sedans, the 2012 Nissan Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V are ideal vehicles for performance buyers who want aftermarket-style appearance and performance features straight from the factory. Built on a foundation of the roomy, comfortable and versatile Sentra sedan, they are also vehicles that offer a great deal of practicality ? easy to live with day-in and day-out.

The SE-R and SE-R Spec V are powered by Nissan's advanced 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (QR25DE). The SE-R is rated at 177 horsepower and the Sentra SE-R Spec V at 200 horsepower. The SE-R and SE-R Spec V are built on Nissan's global C-platform and offer a long list of standard safety features, including Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and six supplemental air bags.

Both models are again equipped with a range of performance-oriented equipment and features (versus non-SE-R Sentra models), including unique exterior and interior appearance modifications.

2.5 Liters, Tuned Two Ways
The heart and soul of the Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V are their advanced high-output QR25DE 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engines. Along with the larger displacement versus the standard Sentra's 2.0-liter powerplant, the engine features extensive modification ? helping achieve 177 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm in the SE-R and 200 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm in the SE-R Spec V.

Among the SE-R Spec V's engine features are the use of a unique resin intake manifold and dual branch exhaust manifold; revised piston crown shape to support its 10.5:1 compression; iridium tipped spark plugs for improved combustion characteristics; and a revised cam shaft profile, reinforced connecting rods and 8-counterweight crankshaft to achieve a higher redline limit of 7,000 rpm (versus 6,200 rpm in the SE-R).

The Sentra SE-R is equipped with Nissan's Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, providing a unique offering in the sport compact market, while the SE-R Spec V is available exclusively with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are standard, and an optional Helical Limited-Slip Differential is available with SE-R Spec V only.

Both vehicles utilize an independent strut, coil spring front and torsion beam rear suspension design with front and rear stabilizer bars, along with 4-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), power-assisted electric steering and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The SE-R utilizes 11.7-inch front and 11.5-inch rear rotors, while contact with the road is handled through 225/45VR17 all-season performance tires. The SE-R Spec V has even larger 12.6-inch front rotors and P225/45WR17 summer performance tires.

The SE-R Spec V also features unique suspension tuning and body structure changes versus the base SE-R. The SE-R Spec V is equipped with higher rate springs, shocks and bushings and a larger (25mm) front stabilizer bar. A revised cowl top structure and a unique trunk mounted "V" brace are utilized for increased body rigidity.

Unique SE-R Exterior and Sporty Interior
Unique SE-R exterior treatments include aggressive front and rear fascias, side sill extensions, rear spoiler and SE-R badging. For 2012, one new exterior color is offered, Red Alert (replaces Lava Red).

Inside Sentra SE-R's cabin are a number of unique SE-R features, including an exclusive black interior color, sport bucket front seats with SE-R stitching, unique seat fabrics, aluminum foot pedal pads, leather-appointed steering wheel (with silver stitching on Spec V) and shift knob. The instrument panel also includes an additional two-gauge meter pack, with the oil pressure and acceleration/deceleration g-force gauges canted towards the driver.

The Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V also offer an array of comfort and convenience features, including standard power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD 6-speaker audio with 4.3-inch color display, auxiliary input jack, MP3 CD playback capability and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices. Also available is an 8-speaker 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. XM Satellite Radio is also offered, along with a Nissan Navigation System that features XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information (XM subscription required, sold separately), 5.0-inch color touch-screen and RearView Monitor.

Standard safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; and front seat Active Head Restraints. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are also standard on both SE-R and SE-R Spec V.

Two options are available for 2012: the SE-R Upgrade Package with power sliding glass moonroof with tilt feature, dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor, Nissan Intelligent Key keyless entry and ignition system, 8-speaker 340-watt Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system and Nissan Navigation System; and the Spec V Upgrade Package, which includes the SE-R Upgrade Package content (except Nissan Intelligent Key), along with Helical Limited Slip Differential.

Vehicle Profile: The 2012 Nissan Sentra SE-R
A value-packed, high-performance sedan that returns 30 mpg highway.

Over the years, Nissan has delivered some of the sportiest, most fun-to-drive four-door sedans available. Nissan has proven its ability to create exhilarating, driver-focused machines that don't exclude rear-seat passengers. The 2012 Nissan Sentra SE-R upholds this longstanding tradition, and offers buyers a generous list of factory-equipped performance accessories, eliminating the need for expensive aftermarket parts.

In addition to the list of common standard features, every Sentra SE-R (MSRP $20,120) features performance accessories like unique SE-R exterior badging, front and rear fascias, aerodynamic side sill extensions, sport grille, rear spoiler with LED brakelights, foglights, 17-inch alloy wheels, special black interior with sport bucket seats and SE-R embroidery, two additional instrument gauges (oil pressure and g-meter), leather-trimmed steering wheel, aluminum pedals and a six-speaker, 160-watt stereo with CD, auxiliary jack and USB input all powered through a 4.3-inch color display.

Available options include an eight-speaker, 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with XM Satellite Radio, Nissan Intelligent Key keyless entry system, RearView Monitor, power moonroof and Nissan Navigation system.

Under the hood, the SE-R packs a 16-valve, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels with 177 hp and 172 lb/ft of torque. Instead of the traditional manual or automatic transmission, the SE-R boasts a specially engineered Nissan Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters.

This transmission is a completely unique offering in the sport compact sedan segment, enabling the SE-R to achieve quick, seamless shifts while maximizing the power and fuel efficiency of the energetic 2.5-liter engine. Instead of gears, the Xtronic CVT uses a steel belt and pulley system to move continuously through different gear ratios without actually "shifting." This eliminates gear hunting and shift-shock; the kick and loss of power you sometimes feel from traditional automatic transmissions.

The Xtronic CVT also has fewer moving parts to reduce friction and heat, adding up to a lighter-weight transmission that's more durable than a traditional automatic. And perhaps one of the greatest attributes of the Xtronic CVT is its positive effect on fuel economy. Around town, the SE-R with the Xtronic CVT returns an impressive 24 mpg while freeway jaunts can be as high as 30 mpg.

Although it's considered a "sport compact," once you step inside the Sentra SE-R, you'll realize there's nothing compact about the interior. Generous amounts of head- and legroom welcome both front- and rear-seat passengers, and the space continues all the way back to the trunk, which can swallow up 13.1 cubic feet of cargo.

The Sentra SE-R displays its athleticism when the road begins to wind. A four-wheel independent suspension with sport tuned springs, a torsion bar in the rear and beefy front and rear stabilizer bars help keep the SE-R planted, and the electric steering system gives the driver light and nimble control of the directional duties.

Standard safety features include four-wheel disc brakes with Antilock Braking System and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Traction Control System.

Every Sentra SE-R also comes with Nissan Advanced Air Bag System featuring dual-stage front airbags, front-side airbags and roof-mounted curtain bags. All of these features helped the Sentra SE-R return a top Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash test ranking of "Good" for frontal-offset tests.

So, if you're looking for a high-performance car that still offers the fuel efficiency of a smaller sedan, stop in today for a test drive of the 2012 Nissan Sentra SE-R. Once behind the wheel, it will be hard to hide that smile.